White House Scandal At A Glance: Feb. 4

Independent Counsel Ken Starr has rejected the latest
written statement by Monica Lewinsky's lawyers seeking immunity from
prosecution for her, CNN has learned. For now, the on-again, off-again immunity discussions are off.

White House Press Secretary Mike McCurry said President Bill Clinton believes he has cleared the air about allegations he had a sexual relationship with former White House intern Lewinsky. "The president believes he's already cleared the air," McCurry said. "He's made very plain and clear what his point of view is."

McCurry confirmed White House lawyers are discussing with lawyers working for Starr "the scope" of any questions that current White House officials may answer during the grand jury proceedings.
McCurry said the White House has not asserted executive privilege.

Plans are underway for a new legal defense fund for Clinton. White House sources say former Clinton campaign and Democratic Party fund-raising chief Terry McAuliffe is in line to head the effort. The fund would accept
contributions of up to $10,000, and would be permitted to accept money from unions, corporations and lobbyists.

Ex-Clinton advisor George Stephanopoulos, now a commentator for ABC, said Clinton needs to be more forthcoming. "The longer the president goes without telling his side of the story, the more unease there will be in the public," Stephanopoulos said.

Vice President Al Gore said he is satisfied with the president's forceful denials that he had sex with Lewinsky or tried to lie about it. "The president has denied these charges, and I believe him," Gore said. "As I have said before, he's not only the president of this country, he's my friend."